JP2008054172A - Signal output setting method of video/sound system and video and sound output device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable even a general user to easily set an output format of video/sound of the content output by equipment on the signal output side best within a range to which equipment on the signal input side can respond without requiring expert knowledge. <P>SOLUTION: The output format of video/sound is initially set in a predetermined signal format to which the equipment 2b on the signal input side can respond at an early stage of connection via an HDMI cable 3b by the equipment 1b on the signal output side, whether or not the output format during setting is optimal to an original signal format of video/sound of new content is judged by every output of video/sound of the new content, when it is not optimal, the optimal signal format to which the equipment 2b on the signal input side can respond and matched to the original signal format of video/sound of the new content more is retrieved to notify setting change guide, a setting change operation based on the notification is accepted to change the output format to a specified signal format. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention connects a signal output side device and a signal input side device with a cable of a digital interface, and contents based on reception or medium reproduction from the signal output side device to the signal input side device via the cable. Video / audio system signal output setting method for outputting video / audio digital signals input by a device on the signal input side and reproducing and outputting (screen display, audio output) and recording of the digital signals input by the device on the signal input side, and The present invention relates to a video / audio output device forming a device on the signal output side of the system.

  Conventionally, the above-described video / audio system includes various video / audio source devices such as DVD players, DVD recorders, CD players, CD recorders, and digital video cameras, and repeater devices such as amplifiers. A video / audio output device forms a signal output side device, and a television receiver including a monitor display forms a signal input side device (so-called sink device).

  Furthermore, the device on the signal output side and the device on the signal input side are connected by a digital interface cable represented by an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable. The cable of this digital interface has an advantage that video, audio and control digital signals can be transmitted with a single cable.

  Then, video / audio digital signals of various contents output from the device on the signal output side by broadcast reception or medium reproduction are output to the device on the signal input side via the HDMI cable, for example, and the device on the signal input side Performs playback output (screen display, audio output) of each content of the input digital signal.

  By the way, a device on the signal input side connected by a digital interface cable such as an HDMI cable holds recognition data (ID) such as EDID (Extended Display Identification Data).

  In this recognition data, information on a video signal format such as a compatible resolution format and color format and an audio signal format such as a surround format that can be supported is written.

  Specifically, in the case of an EDID description table, signals that can be supported such as “corresponding resolution: 480p / 720p / 1080i, corresponding audio format: linear PCM, AC-3, and corresponding color format: RGB”. Format information is written.

  If the output format (signal format) of the video / audio digital signal output by the signal output side device is not a signal format that can be supported by the signal input side device, the signal input side device outputs the input video.・ Audio digital signals cannot be reproduced and output normally (screen display, audio output).

  For example, the resolution will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the video output format of the device 1a on the signal output side can be set to any of the resolutions “480p”, “720p”, and “1080i”. Device 2a can support any video input of resolution "480p", "720p", or "1080i", connect signal output device 1a and signal input device 2a with HDMI cable 3a, There is no problem if the output format of the video of the device 1a on the signal output side is set to any of the resolutions "480p", "720p", and "1080i", and the video / audio of the content output from the device 1a on the signal output side On the basis of the digital signal, a video is reproduced on the signal input side device 2a with the resolution of the output format.

  7 indicates that the resolution “480p” is selected and set, and the white arrow between the devices 1a and 2a indicates the signal output side. Indicates a signal of resolution “480p” output from the device 1a, and a circle mark at the head of the resolution “480p” indicates that the signal input device 2a is compatible.

  However, as shown in FIG. 8, the video output format of the signal output side device 1a can be set to any of the resolutions “480p”, “720p”, and “1080i”, but the signal input side device 2a When only video inputs of resolutions “480p” and “720p” can be supported, the signal output side device 1a and the signal input side device 2a are connected by the HDMI cable 3a, and the video output of the signal output side device 1a is output. When the format is set to the resolution “1080i”, the digital signal of the video with the resolution “1080i” output from the signal output side device 1a is not supported by the signal input side device 2a, and thus cannot be displayed on the screen.

  8 indicates that the resolution “1080i” is selected and set, and the white arrow between the devices 1a and 2a indicates the signal output side. The signal with the resolution “1080i” output from the device 1 a of FIG. 6 indicates that the signal “X” at the head of the resolution “1080i” indicates that the signal input device 2 a is not compatible.

  The audio format will be described. As shown in FIG. 9, the audio output format of the device 1a on the signal output side can be set to any one of “Dolby Digital”, “MPEG”, “DTS”, and “Linear PCM”. (Dolby and DTS are registered trademarks) and when the signal input side device 2a can only support “Dolby Digital” and “linear PCM” audio input, the signal output side device 1a and the signal input side device 2a is connected with the HDMI cable 3a and the audio output format of the device 1a on the signal output side is set to "DTS", the bit stream audio of the "DTS" of the content output from the device 1a on the signal output side Since the digital signal cannot be handled by the device 2a on the signal input side, it cannot be played back or output, and in some cases a noise sound may be produced. It is powered.

  Note that the “DTS” frame line of the device 1a on the signal output side in FIG. 9 indicates that “DTS” is selected as a large item, and the “DTS output” frame line of the balloon is a detailed selection. Indicates that “DTS” is selected and set as the DVD surround. A white arrow between the devices 1a and 2a indicates a signal of the audio format “DTS” output from the device 1a on the signal output side, and an X mark at the head of the audio format “DTS” indicates that the device 2a on the signal input side. Indicates that it cannot be handled.

  The above-described video / audio settings on the signal input side device 2a are not easy for general users even if a detailed setting list of the signal output side device 1a is displayed on the screen. A setting error occurs and the video cannot be displayed on the screen or audio is not output.

  Therefore, each video format (specifically, resolution) that can be supported by the display device (video display device) as the device 2a on the signal input side is recognized from the contents of the description table of the EDID, etc., and displayed on the screen. In addition, it has been proposed that the user selects one of the resolutions so that the resolution of the content output from the signal output side device 1a is set in accordance with a resolution that can be supported by the display device (for example, Patent Documents). 1).

  In this case, the user only needs to appropriately select one or more resolutions displayed on the screen, and the video output format of the device 1a on the signal output side can be easily set.

  The external device as the signal output side device 1a is connected to the HDMI receiver (video signal receiving device) as the signal input side device 2a via the HDMI cable, and based on the contents of the description table of the EDID, etc. It is automatically determined whether the color format of the content output from the external device and input to the HDMI receiver is a presumed RGB format or YCbCr (or YPbPr) format, and based on this determination, the color format of the HDMI receiver It has also been proposed to automatically change the setting to RGB format or YCbCr (or YPbPr) format (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

In this case, the color format of the HDMI receiver, which is the signal input side device 2a, regardless of whether the content color format output by the external device as the signal output side device 1a is the RGB format or the YCbCr (or YPbPr) format. Is automatically changed to match the color format of the content, and the content is normally color processed and displayed on the screen.
JP 2005-167895 A (abstract, paragraphs [0024]-[0037], [0043], FIG. 1 etc.) JP 2005-333472 A (Abstract, paragraphs [00]-[0037], [0043], FIG. 1 etc.)

  When the user selects and sets the output format such as the video / audio resolution of the signal output side device 1a so as to match the signal format that can be supported by the signal input side device 2a as described in Patent Document 1 The setting is not necessarily the best setting for the original video / audio signal format of the content output by the device 1a on the signal output side. The user recognizes the original signal format of video / audio, displays the contents of the description table of the EDID of the device 2a, etc., and supports the output format set by the signal output device 1a and the signal input device The user needs to understand the possible video / audio signal formats, needs specialized knowledge, is not easy for ordinary users, and is troublesome. That.

  Therefore, the video / audio of the output content can be viewed with higher quality video and audio, but it is not the best setting, so it is viewed with original high quality. There is a possibility that it cannot be done.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the device 1a on the signal output side is an HD (High Definition) -DVD player, Blu-ray player, etc., and the resolution is 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p. Can be set, and when the signal input side device 2a is a so-called full high-definition high-definition television receiver or the like and is compatible with resolutions 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p, the signal output side device 1a is If the default resolution 480p is left as it is or if the user does not know which resolution to set, and if the resolution 480p is selected appropriately, for example, it is reproduced from the medium (disc) of the device 1a on the signal output side. High-resolution content with a resolution of 1080p is converted to a resolution of 480p by resolution conversion or the like. Output dropped by the device 2a of the signal input side, the device 2a of the signal input side, is displayed on the screen or the like at a low image quality resolution 480p. Note that the frame line of resolution “480p” of the device 1a on the signal output side in the figure indicates that the resolution “480p” is selected and set, and the white arrow between the devices 1a and 2a is the signal output side Indicates a signal of resolution “480p” output from the device 1a, and a circle mark at the head of the resolution “480p” indicates that the signal input device 2a is compatible.

  In addition, as described in Patent Document 2, the video / audio output format of the signal input side device 2a is changed according to the video / audio signal format of the content output from the signal output side device 1a. When the video / audio signal format of the content output from the signal output side device 1a is not compatible with the signal input side device 2a, the signal output side device 1a as described with reference to FIG. This is not applicable when the resolution of the content output by is 1080i and the signal input side device 2a supports only the resolutions 480p and 720p.

  In the video / audio system of this type, the present invention eliminates the need for specialized knowledge, and allows the general user to easily convert the video / audio output format of the content output from the signal output device to the signal input device. The purpose is to be able to set the best within the range that can be handled.

  In order to achieve the above object, a signal output setting method for a video / audio system according to the present invention includes a signal output side device and a signal input side device connected by a digital interface cable, and the signal output side device. In the video / audio stem signal output setting method, the video / audio digital signal of the content is output to the device on the signal input side via the cable in the output format such as the set resolution or audio format and processed. In the initial stage of connection with the signal input side device by the signal output side device, the signal input side device can handle resolutions, audio formats, etc. from the information of the signal input side device via the cable And the output format of the video / audio digital signal to be output to the device on the signal input side based on the authentication. The device is initially set to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device, and after the initial setting, each time a new content video / audio digital signal is output, the output format being set is the new content video / audio. It is determined whether or not the signal format such as the original resolution and audio format of the digital signal is optimal, and the output format being set is the original resolution and audio format of the video / audio digital signal of the new content. When the signal format is not optimal, the optimal signal format that is compatible with the original signal format of the video / audio of the new content is searched based on the result of the authentication. A setting change guide prompting the user to change the output format to the searched signal format. A notification is output from at least one of the settings, and a setting change operation based on the notification of the setting change guide is received, and the output format of the new content is changed to the signal format specified by the setting change operation. (Claim 1).

  In the video / audio stem signal output setting method of the present invention, the signal output side device and the signal input side device are connected by a digital interface cable, and the video / audio content of the signal output side device is transmitted. In the video / audio system signal output setting method for processing a digital signal by outputting it to the signal input side device via the cable in an output format such as a set resolution or audio format, the signal output side device By authenticating the signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the signal input side device from the information of the signal input side device via the cable at the initial connection with the signal input side device, Based on the authentication, the signal input side device can cope with the output format of the video / audio digital signal output to the signal input side device. Initially set to the signal format, and after the initial setting, every time the new content video / audio digital signal is output, the output format being set is the original resolution of the new content video / audio digital signal or It is determined whether or not the signal format such as audio format is optimal, and when the signal characteristics being set are not optimal for the signal format such as the original resolution and audio format of the video / audio digital signal of the new content, Based on the result of the authentication, the signal input side device is compatible, the optimum signal format suitable for the original signal format of the video / audio of the new content is searched, and the output format is searched for the signal format (Claim 2).

  In the video / audio stem signal output setting method according to claim 1 or 2, it is practical and preferable that the cable of the digital interface is an HDMI cable (claim 3).

  Next, in the video / audio output device of the present invention, the signal output side device and the signal input side device are connected by a cable of a digital interface, and the video / audio digital signal of the content of the signal output side device is In the video / audio output device for forming the signal output side device of the video / audio stem for processing by outputting to the signal input side device via the cable in an output format such as a set resolution or audio format, Authentication means for authenticating a signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side from information on the device on the signal input side via the cable at the initial connection with the device on the signal input side, Based on the authentication of the authentication means, the signal input side device can support the output format of the video / audio digital signal output to the signal input side device. Initial setting means for initial setting to a predetermined signal format, and after the initial setting, for each output of a new content video / audio digital signal, the output format being set is the video / audio of the new content Setting determination means for determining whether or not the signal signal format such as the original resolution or audio format of the digital signal is optimum, and the output format being set by the setting determination means is the digital signal of the video / audio of the new content When it is determined that the signal format such as the original resolution or audio format is not optimal, based on the result of the authentication, the device on the signal input side can support the original video / audio of the new content. Search means for searching for an optimal signal format that is more suitable for the signal format, and a signal for searching for the output format A notification control means for notifying and outputting a setting change guide prompting the change to the format from at least one of the two devices; and an output format of the new content upon accepting a setting change operation based on the notification of the setting change guide Is changed to a signal format designated by the setting change operation. (Claim 4)

  In the video / audio output device of the present invention, the signal output side device and the signal input side device are connected by a cable of a digital interface, and the video / audio digital signal of the content of the signal output side device is set. In the video / audio output device for forming the signal output side device of the video / audio system for processing by outputting to the signal input side device via the cable in the output format such as resolution and audio format, the signal An authentication means for authenticating a signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side from information on the device on the signal input side via the cable in the initial connection with the device on the input side; Based on the authentication by the authentication means, the signal input side device can support the output format of the video / audio digital signal output to the signal input side device. Initial setting means for initial setting to a predetermined signal format, and after the initial setting, for each output of a new content video / audio digital signal, the output format being set is the new content video / audio digital Setting determination means for determining whether or not the signal is suitable for the signal format such as the original resolution and audio format, and the output format being set by the setting determination means is the original of the video / audio digital signal of the new content When it is determined that the signal format is not optimal for a signal format such as resolution or audio format, based on the result of the authentication, the device on the signal input side can support the original video / audio signal of the new content. A search means for searching for an optimum signal format adapted to the format, and the output format of the new content. The Tsu bets is the searching means is characterized in that a setting automatic changing means for changing the signal format of a search (claim 5).

  In the video and audio output device according to claim 4 or 5, it is practical and preferable that the cable of the digital interface is an HDMI cable (claim 6).

  According to the first and fourth aspects of the present invention, when the signal output side device (video / audio output device) and the signal input side device are connected by the cable of the digital interface, the resolution and sound that the signal input side device can support. Based on the authentication of the signal format such as the format, the output format of the video / audio digital signal of the device on the signal output side (video / audio output device) is automatically initialized to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side Optimal signal format that is set and then compatible with the original signal format of the new content video / audio that can be supported by the device on the signal input side every time a new content video / audio digital signal is output And a setting change guide prompting the change to the searched signal format is displayed on the signal output side device (video / audio output device), signal One after being informed output at least one of the input side of the device the user is notified.

  When the user performs a setting change operation to the searched signal format based on the notification, the operation is accepted and the output format of the device (video / audio output device) on the signal output side is the video / audio of the new content. The signal format is changed to an optimum signal format adapted to the original signal format.

  Therefore, specialized knowledge is not required, and even a general user can easily handle the video / audio output format of the content output by the signal output device (video / audio output device) by the signal input device. Can be set the best in range. At this time, since the user can select whether or not to change the output format, there is also an advantage that the user can select the image quality and sound quality of the content to be reproduced and output.

  According to the second and fifth aspects of the present invention, when the signal output side device (video / audio output device) and the signal input side device are connected by the cable of the digital interface, the signal input side device can handle the resolution. The audio / video digital signal output format of the device (video / audio output device) on the signal output side is automatically set to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side. After that, each time a new content video / audio digital signal is output, the device on the signal input side can handle it, and it is optimally adapted to the original signal format of the new content video / audio. The signal format is searched, and the output format of the device (video / audio output device) on the signal output side is automatically set to the searched optimal signal format. It is changed to.

  Therefore, there is no need for the user to do anything, and anyone can very easily handle the video / audio output format of the content output from the signal output device (video / audio output device). Can be set the best in range.

  Further, according to the third and sixth aspects of the invention, since the digital interface cable is an HDMI cable, the effects of the first, second, fourth and fifth aspects can be achieved with a very practical configuration.

  Next, in order to describe the present invention in more detail, an embodiment thereof will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

(First embodiment)
First, a first embodiment corresponding to claims 1, 4 and 3, 6 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a video / audio system, which is formed by connecting a signal output side device 1b and a signal input side device 2b by an HDMI cable 3b which is a digital interface cable. Yes. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a setting change guidance screen. 3 and 4 are first and second flowcharts for explaining the operation of the signal output side device 1b according to the present embodiment.

  1 includes a video / audio device 4 formed by a DVD player with a television reception function, for example. The signal input device 2b in FIG. 1 is a television receiver of a plasma display or a liquid crystal display, for example. At the time of installation or the like, both ends of the HDMI cable 3b are detachably connected to the HDMI terminal portions of both devices 1b and 2b, and the devices 1b and 2b are connected via the HDMI cable 3b.

  When the power of the signal output side device 1b is turned on in this state, the signal output side device 1b and the signal input side device 2b perform well-known mutual authentication via the HDMI cable 3b. The contents of the description table are transmitted / received through the HDMI cable 3b.

  Then, the device 1b on the signal output side takes in the contents of the received EDID description table into the memory 8 via the signal conversion unit 6 and the HDMI control unit 7 based on the control of the main control unit 5.

  The contents of the EDID fetched into the memory 8 are a list of various video / audio output formats that can be supported by the device 2b on the signal input side, specifically, resolution: 480p / 720p / 1080i, audio format: Information such as linear PCM, AC-3, color format: RGB. Then, based on the information in the list in the memory 8, the main control unit 5 recognizes the output format such as the output format of the video such as the resolution and the color format and the surround characteristics of the audio.

  By the way, the main control unit 5, the signal conversion unit 6, the HDMI control unit 7, the setting determination unit 9 described later, and the like are formed by microcomputer software, and each executes a set processing program.

  Then, the signal conversion unit 6 forms authentication means of the present invention, and based on the control of the main control unit 5, information on the signal input side device 2 b (via the cable 3 b) in the initial connection with the signal input side device 2 b ( Based on the contents of the EDID, the authentication of the signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the device 2b on the signal input side is performed.

  The HDMI control unit 7 forms the initial setting means of the present invention, and based on the authentication of the authentication means, the signal output side device 1b signals the output format of the video / audio digital signal output to the signal input side device 2b. Initial setting is made to a predetermined (preset) signal format that can be supported by the input-side device 2b, and the setting contents are stored in the memory 8 in a rewritable manner. In addition, it accepts a user's setting change operation based on the notification of setting change guidance described later, and changes the output format of video and audio of new content from the output format being set to the signal format specified by the setting change operation. The changed signal format is stored in the memory 8 in a rewritable manner.

  The setting discriminating unit 9 forms the setting judging means of the present invention, and after the initial setting, every time a new content video / audio digital signal based on broadcast reception or disc playback is output, the video / audio output format being set Is determined to be optimal for the signal format such as the original resolution and audio format of the digital signal of the new content video / audio.

  Specifically, in the case of the resolution of the content output of the TV broadcast program of the reception processing unit 11 based on the reception of the antenna 10 or the cable input, or the content output of the reproduction processing unit 13 for reproducing the disc 12 such as DVD or CD, If the original resolution of the content is a low resolution of (vertical × horizontal =) 352 × 240 pixels to 720 × 480 pixels, there is no problem with any output format resolution. As long as the resolution is in a range that can be handled by the device 2b, the currently set output format of video and audio is determined to be optimal. On the other hand, if the original resolution of the new content is a high resolution of (vertical × horizontal =) 1280 × 780 pixels, it is determined that the current setting is not optimal when the resolution being set is smaller than 720p and insufficient. To do. Further, if the original resolution of the new content is an ultra high resolution of (vertical × horizontal =) 980 × 780 pixels, 1440 × 1080 pixels, 1920 × 1080 pixels, the resolution being set is smaller than 1080i and insufficient. Sometimes it is determined that the current setting is not optimal.

  The main control unit 5 controls the operation of each unit and forms search means, notification control means, and setting change means of the present invention.

  The search means determines that the result of the authentication when the setting determination means determines that the video / audio output format being set is not optimal for the original signal format of the digital video / audio signal of the new content. Based on the above, a search is made for an optimal signal format that can be supported by the device 2b on the signal input side and that is more suitable for the original signal format of video / audio of new content.

  Specifically, when it is determined that the original resolution of the new content is a high resolution of (vertical x horizontal =) 1280 x 780 pixels and the resolution being set is smaller than 720p and is not optimal, A resolution of 720p or higher in a range that can be handled by the device 2b is searched. Also, it is determined that the original resolution of the new content is an extremely high resolution of (vertical × horizontal =) 980 × 780 pixels, 1440 × 1080 pixels, 1920 × 1080 pixels, and the resolution being set is smaller than 1080i and is not appropriate. The resolution of 1080i or higher in a compatible range of the device 2b on the signal input side is searched.

  Further, the notification control means outputs a setting change guide prompting to change the video / audio output format of the new content to the signal format searched by the search means from at least one of the devices 1b and 2b ( Specifically, as shown in Table 1 below, the original resolution of the new content may be a low resolution of (vertical × horizontal =) 352 × 240 pixels to 720 × 480 pixels. For example, the notification output (notification output) of the setting change guidance is not performed as long as the resolution is in a range that can be handled by the device 2b on the signal input side, but the original resolution of the new content is (vertical × horizontal =) 1280 × 780. If the pixel resolution is high and the resolution being set is smaller than 720p, a setting change guide to the searched setting resolution of 720p or higher is notified and a new content book If the current resolution is (high x horizontal =) 980 x 780 pixels, 1440 x 1080 pixels, 1920 x 1080 pixels, and the resolution is searched, a setting change guide to a setting resolution of 1080i or higher is output. To do.

  The setting change guide is formed by, for example, an on-screen display (OSD) output, and a large-screen display 2b * for video display of the device 2b on the signal input side or a small-screen display for OSD display of the devices 1b and 2b (see FIG. (Not shown) is displayed as a screen P shown in FIG. Then, by selecting “Yes” or “No” on the screen P by a key operation of the remote controller, the user notifies the setting change means of the main control unit 5 of a setting change affirmative or negative operation.

  Then, the setting change means receives a user setting change operation based on the notification of the setting change guide, and is designated by the setting change operation as an output format of a new content to the signal conversion unit 6 via the HDMI control unit 7. Change the signal format of the search results.

  1 denotes a DAC (D / A conversion) unit for analog output of video / audio, and 15 denotes an analog output terminal of video / audio.

  Based on the above configuration, the video / audio output device 4 which is the device 1b on the signal output side operates as shown in steps S1 to S21 in FIGS.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 3, when the devices 1b and 2b are connected by the HDMI cable 3b and the power is turned on by the user processing S0 indicated by the broken line, the main control unit 5 and the like execute the set program. Accordingly, the authentication means of the signal conversion unit 6 uses the contents of the EDID of the signal input side device 2b via the HDMI cable 3b to authenticate the signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the signal input side device 2b. To do.

  Next, in step S2, the initial setting unit of the HDMI control unit 7 determines a predetermined (preliminarily set) output format of the video / audio digital signal that can be supported by the signal input device 2b based on the authentication by the authentication unit. The signal format is initially set, and the setting contents are stored in the memory 8 in a rewritable manner.

  Next, when the first content output is made by receiving a television broadcast or playing a disc, the process proceeds from step S2 to step S4 through step S3, and the setting determination unit of the setting determination unit 9 uses the original video / audio of the content. The information such as the signal format is acquired, and the output format being set is optimal for the original signal format of the content by referring to the correspondence table such as Table 1 stored in the memory 8 in a rewritable manner in step S5. Determine whether or not.

  If the output format being set is optimum, the process proceeds from step S5 to step S6, and the video / audio digital signal of the content in the set output format is sent to the signal input side device 2b via the HDMI cable 3b. Output.

  On the other hand, if the output format being set is not optimal, the process proceeds from step S5 to step S7, and the search unit of the main control unit 5 can support the signal input side device 2b and the video / audio of the content can be handled. Search for an optimal signal format that is more suitable for the original signal format.

  When a more suitable optimum signal format is detected, the process proceeds from step S7 to step S9 via step S8, and the setting change guide prompts the notification control means to change to the searched signal format, for example. The OSD signal is supplied to the signal input-side device 2b via the HDMI cable 3b, and is displayed on the signal input-side device 2b to notify and output the setting change guide (notification output).

  At this time, if “Yes” is selected and the user performs a setting change operation, the process proceeds to step S11 via step S10, and the setting change unit accepts the user's setting change operation, via the HDMI control unit 7. After changing and setting the output format of the content to the signal conversion unit 6 and changing the signal format of the search result, the process proceeds from step S11 to step S6, and the content of the television broadcast reception or disc playback is input as a signal with the resolution and audio format of the format To the side device 2b.

  If “NO” is selected and the user indicates that the setting is not to be changed, step S10 is negated (NO), the process proceeds to step S6, and the signal converter 6 maintains the default output format. Then, the content of the television broadcast reception or disk playback is output to the signal input side device 2b with the resolution and sound format of the output format set in the initial setting.

  Then, the process proceeds from step S6 in FIG. 3 to step S12 in FIG. 4, and the current output format acquired by the main control unit 5 is stored in the memory 8 in a rewritable manner.

  Thereafter, each time an automatic output change (switching) occurs due to a user's remote control operation or content scene switching, etc. and a new content is output, the process proceeds from step S12 to step S14 via step S13, and FIG. As in step S5, it is determined whether the output format being set is optimal for the original signal format of the content.

  If it is optimum, the process proceeds from step S14 to step S15, and the new content of the television broadcast reception or disc playback is output to the signal input side device 2b with the resolution and audio format of the output format set.

  If it is not optimal, the process proceeds from step S14 to step S16, and the setting change guidance is notified and output (notification output) by steps S16 to S20 similar to steps S7 to S11 in FIG. The content output format is changed and set to the optimum signal format of the search result as a condition.

  Further, the process proceeds from step S20 to step S15, and the new content of the television broadcast reception or disc playback is output to the signal input side device 2b with the resolution and sound format of the signal format.

  Then, the process proceeds from step S15 to step S13 through step S21 until the power is turned off. The process from step S13 is repeated, and each time a new content is output, the original video / audio signal of the content is output. The format is retrieved, and the content is output to the signal input device 2b in the retrieved output format on condition of user selection.

  Accordingly, in the case of the first embodiment, when the HDMI cable 3b is connected, the video / audio output format of the signal output side device 1b is automatically set to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the signal input side device 2b. After that, the video / audio output format of the device 1b on the signal output side is output according to the user's selection by a simple operation of selecting “Yes” or “No” displayed on the screen. Can be automatically changed to a signal format most suitable for the content to be played, and even a general user without specialized knowledge can easily change the video / video of the content output by the device (video / audio output device 4) 1b on the signal output side. The audio output format can be optimally set within the range that can be supported by the device 2b on the signal input side. At that time, since the user can select whether or not to change the output format, there is an advantage that the user can positively select the image quality and sound quality of the content to be reproduced and output.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment corresponding to claims 2, 5 and 3, 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIGS. 5 and 6 are first and second flowcharts for explaining the operation of the device 1b on the signal output side according to the present embodiment, and correspond to FIGS.

  The device on the signal output side of the present embodiment is configured similarly to the device 1b on the signal output side in FIG. Therefore, in the following description, the device on the signal output side of the present embodiment will be described as the device 1b on the signal output side.

  The signal output side device 1b of the present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the video / audio output device 4 forming the signal output side device 1b is the notification control means of the first embodiment, the setting. Instead of the changing means, automatic setting changing means is provided, and the automatic setting changing means automatically changes the video / audio output format of the new content to the signal format searched by the searching means. The setting automatic changing means is formed by the main control unit 5.

  Since the automatic setting change means is provided, the video / audio output device 4 operates as shown in steps Q1 to Q17 of FIGS.

  The process Q0 shown by the broken line in FIG. 5 is a user process for connecting with the same HDMI cable 3b as the process S0 in FIG.

  Further, steps Q1 to Q8 in FIG. 5 are the same processes as steps S1 to S8 in FIG. 3, and in step Q7, the device 2b on the signal input side can cope with the original signal format of video / audio of the content. When the optimum signal format conforming to the above is retrieved, the process proceeds from step Q8 to step Q9, and the setting automatic change means causes the HDMI control unit 7 to switch the setting change guide without displaying the setting change guide as in the first embodiment. Then, the output format of the content is changed and set to the signal format of the search result in the signal converter 6.

  Then, the process shifts from step Q9 to step Q6, and the content of the television broadcast reception or disc playback is output to the signal input side device 2b with the resolution and sound format of the output format.

  In step Q7, if the optimum signal format that can be supported by the device 2b on the signal input side cannot be searched, step Q8 is negated (NO), and the process proceeds to step Q6, where the resolution of the default output format is set. The content of the television broadcast reception or the disk reproduction in the audio format is output to the signal input side device 2b.

  Then, the process proceeds from step Q6 in FIG. 5 to step Q10 in FIG. 6, and the current output format acquired by the main control unit 5 is retained in the memory 8 in a rewritable manner.

  Thereafter, in steps Q11 to Q15 and Q17 corresponding to steps S13 to S17 and S21 in FIG. 4 and step Q16 corresponding to step Q9 in FIG. ) Occurs and a new content is output, it is determined whether or not the output format being set is optimal for the original signal format of the content.

  If it is optimum, the process proceeds from step Q12 to step Q13, and the new content of the television broadcast reception or disk playback is output to the signal input side device 2b with the resolution and audio format of the output format set.

  If it is not optimal, the process proceeds from step Q12 to step Q14, the content output format is automatically changed to the optimum signal format of the search result, and the television broadcast reception or disc is performed with the resolution and sound format of the signal format. The new content to be reproduced is output to the device 2b on the signal input side.

  Accordingly, in the case of the second embodiment, when the HDMI cable 3b is connected, the video / audio output format of the signal output side device 1b is automatically set to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the signal input side device 2b. After that, without any action by the user, the video / audio output format of the device 1b on the signal output side is changed to the optimum signal format for the content to be output to the device 2b on the signal input side. It can be changed automatically, and the video / audio of each content can be output to the signal input side device 2b in each optimum output format that can be handled by the signal input side device 2b. The signal input side device 2b can support the video / audio output format of the content output from the signal output side device (video / audio output device 4) 1b. It can be set to the best in a range.

  And this invention is not limited to both above-mentioned embodiment, In the range which does not deviate from the meaning, it is possible to perform various deformation | transformation implementation other than what was mentioned above, for example, between apparatus 1b, 2b The digital interface cable is not limited to the HDMI cable 3b.

  The device 1b on the signal output side includes various video / audio output devices including various video / audio source devices such as DVD players, DVD recorders, CD players, CD recorders, digital video cameras, and repeater devices such as amplifiers. Of course, the device 2b on the signal input side may be various television receivers including a monitor display. At that time, the configuration of the devices 1b and 2b, the types and number of video and audio signal formats that can be supported by the devices 1b and 2b, the method of notifying the setting change guidance, and the like may be used.

  Then, the present invention forms a signal output setting method for various video / audio systems constructed by connecting a device on the signal output side and a device on the signal input side with a cable of a digital interface, and the device on the signal output side The present invention can be applied to various video / audio output devices.

1 is a block diagram of a video / audio system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the example of a screen display of setting change guidance same as the above. FIG. 6 is a first flowchart for explaining the operation of the video / audio output device forming the signal output side device. FIG. 6 is a second flowchart for explaining the operation of the video / audio output device forming the signal output side device. It is a 1st flowchart for operation | movement description of the video / audio output device which forms the apparatus of the signal output side of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a second flowchart for explaining the operation of the video / audio output device forming the signal output side device. It is explanatory drawing of an example of the resolution setting of a conventional system. It is explanatory drawing of the other example of the resolution setting of a conventional system. It is explanatory drawing of an example of the audio format setting of a conventional system. It is explanatory drawing of the example of a setting which is not optimal of the conventional system.

Explanation of symbols

1b Signal output side device 2b Signal input side device 3b HDMI cable 4 Video / audio output device 5 Main control unit 6 Signal conversion unit 7 HDMI control unit 8 Memory 9 Setting determination unit

Claims (6)

Connect the device on the signal output side to the device on the signal input side with a digital interface cable, and output the video / audio digital signal of the content of the device on the signal output side in the output format such as the set resolution and audio format. In the signal / output system signal output setting method for processing by outputting to the signal input side device via the cable, the cable at the initial stage of connection with the signal input side device by the signal output side device. A signal format such as a resolution and an audio format that can be supported by the signal input side device from information on the signal input side device via the video, and a video output to the signal input side device based on the authentication The output format of the digital audio signal is initialized to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side. Determines whether the output format being set is optimal for the signal format such as the original resolution and audio format of the new content video / audio digital signal for each output of a new content video / audio digital signal When the output format being set is not optimal for the signal format such as the original resolution or audio format of the video / audio digital signal of the new content, the device on the signal input side is based on the result of the authentication. And a setting change guide that prompts the user to search for an optimal signal format that is more suitable for the original signal format of video / audio of the new content and to change the output format to the searched signal format. Notification output from at least one of the devices, and setting change based on notification of the setting change guide Signal output setting method of the video and audio system, characterized in that to change the signal format specified output format in the setting change operation of the new content ready for work. Connect the device on the signal output side to the device on the signal input side with a digital interface cable, and output the video / audio digital signal of the content of the device on the signal output side in the output format such as the set resolution and audio format. In the signal / output system signal output setting method for processing by outputting to the signal input side device via the cable, the cable at the initial stage of connection with the signal input side device by the signal output side device. A signal format such as a resolution and an audio format that can be supported by the signal input side device from information on the signal input side device via the video, and a video output to the signal input side device based on the authentication The output format of the digital audio signal is initialized to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side. Determines whether the output format being set is optimal for the signal format such as the original resolution and audio format of the new content video / audio digital signal for each output of a new content video / audio digital signal When the signal characteristics being set are not optimal for the signal format such as the original resolution or audio format of the video / audio digital signal of the new content, the device on the signal input side Searching for an optimal signal format that can be supported and adapted to the original signal format of the video / audio of the new content, and changing the output format to the searched signal format. Signal output setting method.   3. The video / audio stem signal output setting method according to claim 1, wherein the cable of the digital interface is an HDMI cable. Connect the device on the signal output side to the device on the signal input side with a digital interface cable, and output the video / audio digital signal of the content of the device on the signal output side in the output format such as the set resolution and audio format. In the video / audio output device forming the signal output side device of the video / audio stem to be processed by being output to the signal input side device via the cable, in the initial connection with the signal input side device, the Authentication means for authenticating a signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the signal input side device from information on the signal input side device via a cable, and based on the authentication of the authentication means, the signal input side The output format of the video / audio digital signal output to the device is initially set to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side. And an initial setting means that performs the initial setting, and for each output of a new content video / audio digital signal, the output format being set is the original resolution or audio of the new content video / audio digital signal. Setting determination means for determining whether or not the signal format such as the format is optimal, and the output format being set by the setting determination means is the original resolution or audio format of the video / audio digital signal of the new content When it is determined that the signal format is not optimal, based on the result of the authentication, the device on the signal input side can support the optimal signal that is more suitable for the original signal format of the video / audio of the new content Search means for searching the format, and a setting for prompting to change the output format to the searched signal format. Notification control means for informing and outputting change guidance from at least one of the two devices, and accepting a setting change operation based on the notification of the setting change guidance, and specifying the output format of the new content by the setting change operation A video / audio output device comprising setting change means for changing to a signal format. Connect the device on the signal output side to the device on the signal input side with a digital interface cable, and output the video / audio digital signal of the content of the device on the signal output side in the output format such as the set resolution and audio format. In the video / audio output device forming the signal output side device of the video / audio stem to be processed by being output to the signal input side device via the cable, in the initial connection with the signal input side device, the Authentication means for authenticating a signal format such as resolution and audio format that can be supported by the signal input side device from information on the signal input side device via a cable, and based on the authentication of the authentication means, the signal input side The output format of the video / audio digital signal output to the device is initially set to a predetermined signal format that can be supported by the device on the signal input side. And an initial setting means that performs the initial setting, and for each output of a new content video / audio digital signal, the output format being set is the original resolution or audio of the new content video / audio digital signal. Setting determination means for determining whether or not the signal format such as the format is optimal, and the output format being set by the setting determination means is the original resolution or audio format of the video / audio digital signal of the new content When it is determined that the signal format is not optimal, based on the result of the authentication, the device on the signal input side can support the optimal signal that is more suitable for the original signal format of the video / audio of the new content A search means for searching for a format, and a search means for searching for the output format of the new content. Audio-video output device being characterized in that a setting automatic changing means for changing the such signal format. 6. The video / audio output apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the cable of the digital interface is an HDMI cable.

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